Trikala: Antiquity, Old Town and Koziakas

Trikala has several clearly distinct sides: in the center of modern Trikala lies the archaeological site of ancient Trikke, alongside a museum, the Old Town and notable buildings. The destination also includes Koziakas and the Asklipios Trail, offering scenery and a riverside walk. This lets you shape your stay around city history, music or nature.

Ancient Trikke and city history

The archaeological site of ancient Trikke, known as the Asklepieion of Trikala, is about 150 meters from the central square. The Lycurgus Mosaic from ancient Trikke dates to the 3rd century AD and is one of the most significant examples of Roman mosaic art in Thessaly. The complex of the Osman Shah Mosque and Mausoleum represents another historical period: it is the only surviving work in Greece by the Ottoman architect Sinan.

The Central Bridge also brings together two specific dates: it has been designated a historic protected monument since 1996, and was converted for pedestrian use in 1997. The Clock Tower of Trikala has a total height of 26.60 meters. The public artwork in Manavika is a 150-square-meter mural.

Musical history and the Old Town

The Tsitsanis Museum in Trikala is dedicated to the life and work of Vasilis Tsitsanis, who was born there. The exhibits include his biography, photographs, musical instruments and personal belongings. Audiovisual material complements these themes, including sheet music and recordings featuring authentic performances of his songs. At the museum, you can explore both biographical and musical aspects of the composer.

Varousi offers another way to experience the city’s history: a walk leads through the narrow lanes of Trikala’s Old Town alongside the Byzantine castle. Here, the focus is on the route through the lanes, while the Tsitsanis Museum explores his life and work through its collection areas.

Koziakas and the Asklipios Trail

Koziakas is characterized by bare, rocky ridges and peaks, as well as fir forests and open, wooded ravines. It is included in the Natura 2000 sites GR 1440002 and GR 1440006. Rock and forest shape the scenery of Koziakas.

The Asklipios Trail in Gorgogyri follows the Kefalopotamos beneath centuries-old plane trees, passing pools and small waterfalls. The route is low in difficulty. Natural conditions can change seasonally, and weather and maintenance also affect the condition of the trail. Check conditions before your walk.

A seasonal experience

Every year, Matsopoulos Mill is transformed for more than a month into the Christmas attraction Mylos ton Xotikon. It includes a Santa’s house, where children can meet him and have their photo taken with him. Specific dates and program details may change from year to year; if you plan to enjoy this seasonal experience, check the event dates before your trip.

The themes are clearly distinct and can help you plan your trip around your interests.

Discover more destinations

Kalampaka, Kastaniá, Neokhórion, Longá, Pýli, Neraïdochóri, Pýrra, Kallirróï, Vasilikí, Elati, Pertouli, Kranéa, Athamania, Vrontero, Stournareika, Zarko, Gavros, Vlacha, Paleochori, Apostoli, Paleopirgos, Tríkala, Kastraki

For the broader travel overview: Thessaly.